Capt James, I would not recommend powder coating a mast. Why pray tell do I express myself in a negative way to this fine finish procedure? Because the piece is put in an oven at approx.425 degrees F. to cure the coating - (plastic). This is probably not good for the temper that was put into the extrusion for its strength. Might be wrong - but I would pass on the process for a spar on the boat - I have had mooring cleats and spacers, brackets powder coated, if you have a casting coated it takes a different type of coating (porosity and off gassing issues), I am told by the coaters (industrial areo company) NOT to use the material at or below the waterline - I was going to have my alum. rudder cheeks powder coated on my S2 and they advised against- maybe new materials nowadays - check with a reputable company - or three. Unfortunately not good for refurbished centerboard plates - darn! Pros - My mooring cleats are gorgeous - you do know what the four hole open base merriman cleat sells for today right? The alum. spacers for my nav lights are equally cute, and all in a long lasting coating - I am going for something goofy colorwise on the next run. Cons: It is not Bomb proof - tough but not impervious. Make sure you or the coaters mask threads on parts - also note the material is of substantial thickness compared to paint or anodizing and tolerances may be affected. Gary O. M-17 # 316a
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